Range Children's Therapy and Learning Center

Author

• Medea Clusiau

Files

Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Architecture

College

Arts and Sciences

Department

Architecture

Faculty Advisor

Regin Schwaen

Studio Coordinator

Stephen Wischer

Faculty Chair

Susan Kliman

Publisher

North Dakota State University

Rights

NDSU policy 190.6.2

URI

https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf

Abstract

The rise in childhood developmental disabilities coupled with co-occurring emotional disorders is placing significant stress on current support structures and hindering students’ academic potential (Zablotsky et al., 2023; Leeb et al., 2024). While the need for intervention is critical, available resources are often insufficient. This thesis proposes the Range Children’s Therapy and Learning Center (RCTLC) as a comprehensive, centralized facility dedicated to ensuring every child recieves holistic suppport for academic and life success. The center integrates a wide spectrum of interventions across three areas: Developmental, Behavioral & Emotional, and Cognitive therapies. This approach is designed to build foundational learning strategies.

The design methodology for the RCTLC treats the architecture as a therapeutic tool that is designed to support cognitive function and self-regulation (Simplified Autism Research, n.d.). Recognizing that thoughtful sensory integration is essential for helping children regulate their responses to stimuli, this principle is embedded in the built environment. The design follows Dr. Magda Mostafa’s Autism ASPECTSS Design Index. This framework guides the implementation of sensory-conscious principles to cultivate a predictable and low-stimulus setting (Mostafa, 2015). The utilization of a flexible cluster system and biophilic design create a calm, organized, and neuro-inclusive space, which actively minimizes sensory overload and facilitates the focused attention required for successful learning and development within the center.

The RCTLC is located in Hibbing, Minnesota, an area facing a significant shortage of specialized child resources. Situated directly across from Lincoln Elementary and easily accessible via Highway 169, the center is optimally positioned to serve all surrounding Iron Range districts.

Recommended Citation

Clusiau, Medea, "Range Children's Therapy and Learning Center" (2026). Architecture Theses. 84.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/architecture-theses/84